Final answer:
In the given sentence, "effeminate" refers to qualities traditionally associated with 2) femininity, suggesting the riding clothes are showy or delicate in a way that is culturally attributed to women, and it highlights gender rather than biological sex characteristics.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the sentence you've provided, the term "effeminate" is best defined as feminine. This means that the swank, or showy behavior, of the person's riding clothes, has qualities that are traditionally associated with women. The clothes are perhaps more delicate, showy, or ornamental than typically masculine attire. However, even with this effeminate swank, the sentence suggests that the power of the person's body cannot be concealed.
The terms "masculine" and "feminine" can refer to a person's gender characteristics, rather than their biological sex. Thus, something effeminate is more aligned with characteristics traditionally associated with women or considered to be feminine in a particular cultural context.
When mentioning clothing that doesn't conform to societal norms, critical reactions can occur, as was common in ancient times when people would criticize those who wore clothes not befitting their social status or gender expectations. This can be related to the context provided, where a divergence from the norm in attire attracts attention and possibly criticism.